Thanksgiving is a time for turkey, traditions, and togetherness. It ¢â‚¬â„¢s also a holiday famous for its travel and festivities — and let ¢â‚¬â„¢s be honest, maybe a little too much ¢â‚¬Å“cheer. ¢â‚¬ � But here ¢â‚¬â„¢s the deal, folks: the saying isn ¢â‚¬â„¢t ¢â‚¬Å“Buzzed driving is a suggestion. ¢â‚¬ � It ¢â‚¬â„¢s ¢â‚¬Å“Buzzed driving is drunk driving. ¢â‚¬ � And it ¢â‚¬â„¢s worth repeating this holiday season.

Sure, Aunt Mabel ¢â‚¬â„¢s pumpkin pie might be the talk of the dinner table, but let ¢â‚¬â„¢s not forget the other traditions: making memories, sharing gratitude, and ¢â‚¬ ¦ avoiding conversations about politics at all costs. (Pro tip: ¢â‚¬Å“Pass the gravy ¢â‚¬ � is an excellent subject-changer.)

What we don ¢â‚¬â„¢t need is another Thanksgiving ¢â‚¬Å“tradition ¢â‚¬ � of bad decisions. No one wants to turn a night of laughter into a lifetime of regret. Whether you ¢â‚¬â„¢ve had one glass of wine or a seasonal ¢â‚¬Å“special ¢â‚¬ � cocktail with more cinnamon sticks than sense, remember that even a little alcohol can impair your judgment.

Here ¢â‚¬â„¢s the good news: avoiding buzzed driving is easy-peasy. Plan ahead. Get a designated driver, call a cab, use a rideshare app, or simply stay the night and tackle Black Friday sales fully rested.  

So, this Thanksgiving, let ¢â‚¬â„¢s all raise a glass to what matters: family, friends, and the fact that everyone gets home safe. After all, the only thing we should be stuffed with on Thanksgiving is turkey, not guilt.

Remember: Buzzed driving is drunk driving. Stay safe, stay smart, and pass the mashed potatoes.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Vinton Police Department.